Travel Guide Information

Ecotourism destinations - Galapagos Islands!

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Tue, 15 May 2012 00:52:00 +0000

Ecotourism is one of the hottest sectors of the travel industry, defined as travel that lets you visit pristine or interesting ecosystems and enjoy nature at its best. What better ecosystem to visit for anyone interested in nature than the Galapagos Islands, with its fascinating wildlife and unique place in the natural history of our world. Galapagos cruises are the ideal way to visit the islands, offering views of the ocean during approach and a leisurely pace of touring the Islands.

For the most enjoyment on your visit to the Galapagos, look for a Galapagos cruise that offers activities and education that will enhance your visit to the islands. Guides with experience in the natural history of the Islands and a knowledge of the animals you plan to see can give you great insights about the wildlife and environment that will help you appreciate the amazing creatures and history of the area and make your vacation even more unforgettable. Even better, bring equipment to record any lectures, or have video (not just camera) capture available during the tours of the islands to further enrich your memories.

Also be sure to inquire whether the Galapagos cruise ship you are considering makes visits to areas with good whale-watching potential, such as the northwest coast of Isabela. You may spot whales anywhere around the Islands, but your chances are much better in certain places. You will also know to be prepared to watch for them when you are in the waters they are most often found.

A wide variety of other entertainment options are often available on cruises. Musical entertainment and night life are popular. Some cruises offer educational programs of all kinds. Many people enjoy trying out various kinds of games, along with the interaction that encourages with your fellow travelers. Pampering and relaxation in a spa or alongside a sparkling pool are often featured. Whether you prefer to be entertained or educated, interact with others, or simply to relax, be sure to select a cruise that offers activities that appeal to your personal tastes.

Bon voyage!

Disneyland Vacation? Save on tickets!

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 04:47:00 +0000

Are you planning a visit to Disneyland? The happiest place on earth is located in Anaheim, California, and is the perfect place for a family with children to explore the magical offerings, for a couple to experience romantic evenings, or for seniors to be young at heart. Come discover the magic for the first time, or revisit your old favorites -- Splash Mountain, The Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, and many more.

Instead of buying Disneyland tickets at the gate, search for options to save money online. California residents can enjoy a special rate on various ticket options. Park Hopper tickets allow you to visit both Disneyland and the California Adventure Park on the same day. Tickets good for multiple days offer savings as well. If you are going to be visiting for a longer time, plan to return within a year, or live in the area and can visit multiple times, consider an annual passport. Different types of tickets have blackout dates, so be sure the option you choose will allow you to visit on your selected dates. If you will be driving, be sure to check out the parking options or separate parking tickets, in order to get the best value. Another option is the premium annual passport, which has no blackout dates and includes free parking.When buying tickets online pay attention to any expiration dates. If you are buying a multi-day ticket, your first visit may need to be scheduled within a certain time frame in order for your ticket to be valid.

There are a number of ways to save money on tickets to Disneyland. The more flexible your vacation plans, the more options available to you. Off-season tickets tend to offer more savings. Another consideration that might help you save money on your vacation tickets are your hotel plans. Staying onsite offers many advantages, including a savings of daily parking fees. If staying offsite, check to see if your hotel offers shuttle service. Regular parking fees are $15 per day, so you may find one of these options suits your plans and budget.

New Camper

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 20:06:00 +0000

Contribution by Archie Watts

Mom and I recently purchased a camper to do our travels we had always dreamed of doing. We planned to go to Florida to do our yearly visits to see my Uncle. I always enjoyed going down to the beach, but I never was fond of being bored in the camper on trips. My mother told me to call Direct TV and see what they offered as far as traveling T.V packages. The next day direct was installing a satellite to our camper. The trip was far less boring this time. Mom and I got to see all the places we had always wanted too and catch up on our favorite shows. My camper is now an up to date, home away from home. I can’t wait for mom and I to bond more and more as we travel to see the world. The world is way bigger the we could ever imagine and I’m thankful I have the rest of my life to see it.

Lessons on travel budgeting

noreply@blogger.com (Inspired Ink) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 17:35:00 +0000

When planning a travel budget, it’s easy to overlook “minor” expenses that turn out to be not so minor. Most of us expect flights, tickets, transportation, hotels and meals to be our major expenses and assume everything else will fit within a small additional “miscellaneous” allowance. We tend to search out the best values for those costs we think will add up to the bulk of our overall travel expenses.

Overlooking “minor” expenses can have a high price tag. For example, I once took an extended 2-week trip across the country, and found a great deal on my flight, paying only $250 round-trip. But the charge for parking my vehicle at the airport’s cheapest “economy” lot added up to over $300 – more than the cost of my flight!

The lesson here is to do your research in advance, including additional expenses. I visited the official site for Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and found the “economy” parking listed at $7.50 per day. Part of the “economy” is a lack of daytime security and a distance of almost 4 miles to the airport.

A quick search for Ft. Lauderdale airport parking at cheapairportparking.org turns up a host of better options, including one for only $4.99 per day, located within a mile of the airport and attended continuously by security in a gated lot. As an added advantage, there is no need to wait for scheduled shuttle service from this independent lot because they run continuously, even upon request. All of this information was easily available with a few simple clicks.

The next time you’re making travel plans, be sure to consider all of your expenses. Make use of online tools that help you search multiple options and compare features and price in order to keep your trip within budget and assure that you will receive the level of service you desire.

Travel blogs and parrot-speak

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 06:17:00 +0000

I watched a scene from a cute movie about a puppy named Napoleon who wanted to be a "wild dog" and who had fantastic adventures on his travels. Along the way, he encountered a group of parrots. The parrots chattered and made fun of him, repeating his every word. Napoleon was too smart for them though. He countered with something like, "I'm a dumb bird!" which the parrots instantly repeated, then were chagrined at their error.

Sometimes life is like that. Whether you are being picked on by bullies at school, or whether you are a puppy in search of an adventurous life as a wild dog, or whether you are a travel blog writer, the parrots sometimes pick on you. So what's the solution? Well, there are of course a number of things you can do, depending on which situation you find yourself in. If you are GoldenB from TGI, you start thinking about movies with cute puppies, and make a blog post about it. Just to create a trail of breadcrumbs so that you might eventually find your way home again from the wicked witch's house. You know the one that tried to bake Hansel and Gretel into a pie? Horrible story that, eating children and all. Then again, many of the fairy tales of old are certainly gruesome. I wonder if their country of origin has anything to do with their general atmosphere? That might be an interesting topic for a blog post, but I'll leave that for another time, dear readers.

Rest assured, there is purpose in all things. And our next post is planned to return you to our current series on tent camping. It's almost finished, and will cover planning, packing, storing, and preparing food for your tent camping trip.

Tent camping - selecting a campsite

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 03:01:00 +0000

You've bought your tent, figured out how to put it up, and chosen your destination.

Now you need to do your homework, and find out some information about the place you plan to camp, so that you can be sure to take what you need.

Will you have access to grocery stores? If so, you can plan to pack only a day or two worth of meats and perishables and replace as you go. Otherwise, you'll need to more carefully plan your food. (Often you'll find a campground store nearby that sells a LOT of essentials that people forget to pack, from salt to spatulas to mustard, but may not carry chicken breasts. These stores are often very pricey too, so unless you have easy access to a regular grocery store, you may want to pack as if you have to take it all yourself.)

What kinds of wildlife are you likely to encounter? If there are bears, you need to plan where you're going to store your coolers -- many times a locked car is recommended. However, in places like Yosemite, it is illegal to store your food (or any item with a smell) in your car -- food lockers must be used. Above all, you must not keep food in your tent. The bears may raid your tent, and you cannot rely on your presence inside the tent to keep them out. Humans, food, and bears are a dangerous combination.

Are fires allowed? And are there places provided to build them? If not, you need to make sure you know how to build one safely and keep it contained. And are you allowed to collect firewood? If not, you will need to bring it in if you want a fire. If you are, a hatchet may be handy if you know how to use it.

Is electric service provided nearby? If so, you can take an electric floodlight and other amenities. I've seen people bring an electric coffee maker camping! If not, make sure you have lanterns and will be able to keep them fueled (extra batteries, fuel, mantles, etc.).

Are you allowed to bring in a grill, or are grills provided? You'll need to know if this is a method you can cook your food, and what you need to bring yourself.

Are there sanitary facilities, and if so, what kind? Either way, you may wish to bring tissue. If you're going completely in the wild, you'll need something to turn over the soil and should bring biodegradable tissue. You will also want to find out if showers are available. If there are outdoor spigots somewhere, those can come in very handy for cleaning off your equipment as you go.

Speaking of which, you want to find out what kind of access to water you will have, if any. You may wish to bring in your own drinking water anyway, but if you will need water for washing dishes and keeping clean, that will greatly increase the amount of water you'll need to bring.

How close will you be able to get your vehicle to the campsite? You want to know this before you plan to bring lots of heavy items to your campsite if you're not going to be able to drive up. Something with wheels might come in handy then.

Make sure you know the procedures for checking in, checking out, payment, any pet policies if you're bringing your pets, and camp area rules (such as noise curfews).

What sort of temperature variations are you expecting when you plan to be there? Sometimes nighttime temperatures can drop far below daytime temps. Are there any special weather precautions you should be aware of?

Sometimes there are special rules like chain requirements. Even if there are no current icy conditions, you may be required to have chains in your possession (even for a rental car or 4-wheel drive) in some parks. These requirements can be in place as early as September or as late as May. If you don't have chains when you are required to have them, you may face a stiff penalty and be required to purchase them on the spot (sometimes waiting for a tow truck to deliver them) which can amount to a very high cost.

And it's a good idea to ask if there is anything else you should know before you come. Some campsites have particular considerations that you won't realize until you get there. If you know experienced campers who have been there before, they would be a good source. You would also do well to talk to the rangers or other authorities for the campsite ... they are usually very interested in making sure everything goes smoothly for everyone.

Next time ... packing your food ...

Tent camping - buying and caring for your tent

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 00:48:00 +0000

We’re beginning a short series on tent camping, so today we want to focus on the most important piece of gear – the camping tent.

Tent camping is a great way to escape the frantic pace many people set for themselves, an opportunity to unplug from all the gadgets of life and get back to nature. Breathe deeply of the cool morning air as you watch the sun come up. If you are quiet enough (and lucky enough!) perhaps a deer will grace you with its presence. Enjoy the satisfaction of preparing your meals over an open fire - nothing tastes better than a grilled dinner after a day spent hiking, swimming, or fishing.

The first preparation in your quest for adventure is to choose a tent for camping. There are a number of factors to consider in your choice. While price is important, especially in a product like tents where the cost can vary so widely, it is important to first consider the features you want and need so that you can get the best value for your money.

One of the first things you should ask yourself is when you will be camping? Tents made for warm-season camping should provide better ventilation, but won’t be good protection against the elements. On the other hand, a tent made for mountaineering will probably be stifling in summer’s heat. Three-season tents often offer a good compromise of features and maximum versatility.

Do your own homework though … if you plan to camp in warm weather, make sure your tent is well-ventilated. Ideally you should have plenty of windows on opposite sides to allow for cooling cross-breezes. mates, look for features such as plenty of window/door openings, preferably on opposite sides of the tent in order to allow cross-ventilation. Examine doors and windows to make sure the tent has screening that will keep out insects.

On the other hand, if you plan to camp frequently in cold weather, one thing you want to consider is the angle of the tent walls. Steeper walls will shed rain and snow more easily, which is especially important in the case of snow, due to the weight.

(Another advantage of steeper walls in any climate is that the tent will enclose a larger inside area relative to the floor size. If the tent has a sharp V-shape, you aren’t going to be able to sit near the sides or store tall gear there.)

Another factor you want to consider is how you will be getting to your campsite. If you plan to hike, cycle, or pack to your campsite, you will want to carefully consider the weight of your tent in relation to the features it offers. Tents range from ultra-lights, weighing only a couple of pounds, through more moderate tents that usually weigh in the 4-9 pound range, all the way up to larger family-style cabins which can add upwards to 20 pounds to the weight of your gear. If you are driving up to your campsite and unloading, the weight likely won’t matter, but if you have to carry in all of your food, water, and gear, a tent that is too heavy may be a real problem.

You should also think about how many people will be using the tent. When you hear a tent described as a “two-person tent” that really means that there is just enough space for two people to spread sleeping bags inside. Realistically, most people want more freedom of movement and will probably need to store items inside, making it much more practical to buy a larger tent. As a general rule, you will be much more comfortable if you add at least two to the number of people you plan to have using the tent. A couple camping together would probably prefer a 4-person tent, and a family of four would likely need at least a 6-person tent.

Consider the style of your camping tent.

Dome tents tend to be stable in winds, as well as shedding rain and snow well. They are often lighter and tend to be less expensive.

Cabin tents are usually much larger and have more of an “outdoor room” feel, allowing plenty of space inside. You can often set up cots, chairs, folding tables, etc. in them. They are also more likely to offer separate rooms which can give privacy when sharing a tent with others. They may also offer a screened room which can be a great place to sit outside while being protected from insects. (But don’t forget that screened rooms can also be purchased separately if your tent doesn’t include one.)

Hoop tents and other minimalist tents tend to be much lighter and offer advantages to hikers who will be carrying all of their gear to the campsite, or who will be camping at more than one site.

Look at the rain fly (the waterproof cover over the tent to shed rain). In some cases, it will stop short of the ground in order to allow for better ventilation in hot climates. Other types of tents will have a rain fly that goes all the way to the ground for maximum protection. Which is best for you depends on the season and conditions you plan to be camping in.

Ensure you buy a tent with strong poles, since they provide the framework and support of the tent. Some tent poles are strung together, keeping them in order and allowing for easy setup. It is essential that you choose a tent made of fireproof material, considering how often fires are built in close proximity to the tent. It should also be sturdy, and have strong stitching. Likewise, zippers will receive a lot of use, so make sure they are well-made. Look at the tent floor -- a single layer is usually better at keeping out moisture since rain can seep between open layers. Examine the stake loops to ensure they are strong, as this is often one of the first places tents will fail. You may also appreciate convenience factors such as pockets built into the tent walls to help you store items, or loops for hanging gear and keeping it handy.

See if the seams are taped, or sealed in some fashion. If not, then plan to apply a seam sealer and allow plenty of time for it to cure before storing or using the tent. This step can be helpful even if the manufacturer states that the tent has been sealed.

If the tent has a ground cloth, be sure to use it in order to help protect the tent floor from sticks, stones, and other sharp objects on the ground that you may not see. If it doesn’t have a ground cloth, you can use a heavy duty tarp instead, but make sure that your tarp is smaller than the tent floor. If not, fold it so that it doesn’t extend beyond the tent walls, otherwise you run the risk of rain running down the sides of the tent and being funneled under the floor by your tarp.

Try to always pitch your tent in the shade in order to protect it from the sun’s rays, which will eventually degrade the tent materials. As an additional precaution, you may want to cover the tent with the rain fly during daylight hours, because it is cheaper to replace than the tent itself.

After camping, be sure to clean your tent. Remove all sand and dirt, wipe the fabric if it is needed. Make sure the tent is completely dry before storing. If there is any moisture at all, it is better to set it back up after you return home and wait for it to dry, otherwise you encourage the growth of mildew.

Next time – tips for storing food and water on a camping trip.

Calgary for famiies

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 01:18:00 +0000

Whether you are planning a vacation to Calgary, are traveling there for business, or are a native, you'll love the variety of family activities available. Check with real estate agents in Calgary to inquire about available Calgary listings to meet your housing needs. Remember, even if your stay will be temporary, consider whether renting a home rather than relying on hotels will be the best fit for your family. Often families can enjoy the utmost in privacy and convenience features while reaping substantial cost savings as well. A Calgary Realtor will also be able to guide you and to assist you in finding the neighborhoods best suited for your family.

Calaway Park

Open from May through October, Calaway Park is a family fun center featuring rides that range from tame to thrilling. Everyone in your family is sure to find plenty to enjoy here. Enjoy a variety of stage shows as well, and of course fun food, shopping outlets, and family games. Don't forget suntan lotion, and bring a sweater as well if you're staying into the evening. If you want to enjoy water rides, make sure your clothes and shoes will dry quickly, or bring a dry change with you.

Calgary Zoo

The Penguins are Here!!! The penguin complex at the Calgary Zoo houses Humboldt, Rockhopper, Kings, and Gentoo penguins and is drawing a lot of attention from excited visitors. It's a good idea to check show schedules and plan your visit around the penguins so you won't be disappointed. The Calgary zoo is open every day year-round except for Christmas Day and Zoogala. Not only is the Calgary Zoo a great place to visit a wide range of wildlife up close, but there are a number of programs offered throughout the year for both children and adults to enjoy learning about the animals and even gardening. A great opportunity for young and old alike!

Shakers Fun Center

A great year-round fun place for kids of all ages. Featuring laser tag, a climbing tower, an indoor playground, games, mini golf, go karts, and water wars, Shakers is a great place to let your inner child come out to play and have fun with your entire family. (Some events are seasonal.)

And for families that like a slower pace, there are lots of opportunities to explore nature and the country side of life.

The Bow Habitat Station (next door to the Sam Livingston Fish Hatchery) offers insight into the natural habitats of Alberta's diverse woodland life. Crawl inside a model of a beaver dam, view aquatic life swimming in 15,000 litre aquariums, enjoy the hands-on interactive learning centers, visit the fish hatchery, view wildlife marshes, and learn from the presentation of an award-winning movie. The Bow Habitat Station is great for nature-loving families and those interested in educating their children about our natural resources while having fun at the same time.

How about taking your kids to visit a farm? Butterfield Acres Children's Farm offers kids the opportunity to get up close and person with all kinds of farm animals, from goats to bunnies, alpacas to turkeys, peacocks to cows, and much more. Try your hand at milking, get busy gathering the eggs. Pony rides are available, as are tractor and wagon rides, and there are several play areas. Special events include pumpkin harvests and easter egg hunts, and birthday parties can be accommodated as well. Spring is an especially good time to visit with all the new baby animals. For some good ole' down country farm fun, bring your kids to Butterfield Acres Children's Farm.

And finally, there's the Calgary Corn Maze, Petting Zoo, and Pumpkin Patch. Experience the challenge of navigating your way out of a tall corn maze full of twisty turns, then let the kids enjoy interacting with the animals. A variety of play areas are available for smaller children, and activities such as a corn-shooting canon are sure to be a hit with slightly older children.

So there you have it ... just a few more reasons why we love Calgary.

BRINGING MY PARENTS AS BABYSITTERS

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 15:45:00 +0000

This guest post from Hong Alexander
I logged onto http://www.CableTelevision.net/ and scheduled an appointment to have television installed in our new home next week. We are actually taking a family vacation next week, so my sister is going to meet the installers at the house and tell them where we want hook ups. I am excited about moving, but even more excited about our much needed and much deserved vacation. We are going on a family ( by family I mean my immediate family) ski vacation. My husband and I love to ski and the kids are five now, old enough to be put in ski school. For the last several years since we have had children, my parents would watch the kids while we went skiing for a week. I feel really lucky to live so close to my parents and have them there to help us out with babysitting if we need it. I just feel so much better leaving my kids with my parents than leaving them with a babysitter. I know that they will take the best care of them. This year though, I have asked my parents to come on the ski trip with us and do some babysitting when the kids aren’t in ski school. They were happy to come!

Unique Dining Experiences - Weird Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 05:55:00 +0000

Where is the most unique place you've ever eaten? A few immediately come to mind for me, but I would probably say it was an outdoor pavillion behind a seafood market (I couldn't call it a restaurant really) where I enjoyed my seafood while guarding it from seagulls and watching the sealions wrestle for position just a few feet away (not to mention it was close to freezing, in August in California!).

The establishments we are featuring today take a dining experience -- highlight the word "EXPERIENCE" -- to a whole new level. The first one does so literally.

Dinner in the Sky offers a meal suspended 150 feet in the air. A crane lifts a platform with diners, employees, a bar-style table and seats high into the sky so they can dine with an amazing view. I'm sure such an experience would never be forgotten.

Not only can you have dinner in the sky, but you can also get married there, or have other events. And where is this available, you may ask? Well, pretty much take your pick. At last count, the service listed 40 countries, and two locations in the US. There may be one near you!

How about heading to the opposite extreme ... below sea level. In the Maldives, you can dine at the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant. A glass ceiling above diners offers a view UP into the sea, giving a whole new meaning to an "under the sea" theme.

For those of you who like to choose your lobster from the tank in the restaurant, this almost gives an eerie feeling of turnabout -- now the diners are the ones in the tank! Ithaa is native for "mother of pearl" and is an appropriate name for this gem of a restaurant.

A surprising travel destination - Lebanon

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 23:01:00 +0000

With years of political turmoil and a history of violent headlines marring the country of Lebanon, it is not the place many would think of as a travel destination. However, it is a beautiful country of natural wonders. During the past several years, there has been a surge in tourism to Lebanon.

Balaa - pictured here, the three level waterfall that has carved a deep natural sinkhole, located in Chatine, Lebanon, is one such amazing natural feature. Three natural bridges traverse alongside the waterfall. To give you an idea of the grand scale of the falls, the bridge in the middle has a man walking across it.

In addition to the natural beauty, all the more enjoyable with the mild climate of the region, there are a number of historic sites as well. This is the Baalbek temple.

Search hotel reservation websites

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 06:30:00 +0000

You can save on hotel bookings when you search across a number of sites offering hotel reservations from one convenient location. Compare current prices and book your best rate now at GetRoomsCheaper.

Brought to you by our friends at GetRoomsCheaper.com.

An Underground River - Weird Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +0000

We're going to start featuring some Weird Destinations on Wednesdays ... something a little out of the ordinary.

Our first selection is Puerto Princessa Subterranean River National Park in the Phillipines. The Puerto Princessa Underground River was chosen last month as one of the New Seven Wonders of the Natural World.

Tours are available via boat into the caverns where the river flows underground. Recent discoveries have shown the Puerta Princessa to be even more spectacular and unusual that first thought -- there is a second "story" inside the caverns creating underground waterfalls and a huge overhead dome. Life inside the caves is more diverse than originally thought as well, ranging from huge bats to exotic marine life. Due to the length of the caverns, their depths remain unexplored.

The rock formations inside the cave are fantastic, and often huge in scale. Opportunities for photography are some of the most unique in the world.

Heart-shaped Island destinations

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:02:00 +0000

In honor of Valentine's Day, how about exploring heart-shaped destinations?

First up is Richard Branson's own Makepeace Island, Australia.


Makepeace Island

A wide range of amenities grace the romantically-shaped island, from tennis courts and spa to tropical pavillion and a marvelous lagoon pool. The indoor features and decor are equally impressive -- my favorite would have to be the huge volcanic boulder bathtubs.


Lagoon pool - Makepeace Island

Our next Valentine-inspirational destination is Galesnjak Island. When Google earth discovered the heart-shape of this island in the Adriatic in 2009, it became an immediate hot destination for weddings, honeymoons, and other lover's trips. In fact, the uninhabited island off the coast of Croatia has now been dubbed Lovers' Island.


Galesnjak Island / Lovers' Island

And finally, Tavarua Island is a Fiju resort most popular for surfing and other water sports. The island features a restaurant, tennis courts, and spa. Accommodations include 16 bures (a Fijian word meaning "hut").

Tavarua Island

Surf surrounding Tavarua Island ranges from thrilling walls of water breaking into perfect curls to calm high-tide pools, perfect for children to splash about in.

Life in New York

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:39:00 +0000

Post contributed by Hilton Miranda

New York is such a crazy place. You never know what is going to happen. Since I’ve lived here for a long time, I’ve learned that I need to be prepared for anything that comes along. I was so naïve when I first started living here, and some of the lessons have been priceless. One thing that I am crazy about is home security in new york. If I didn’t feel safe at home, I don’t think I would be functional. I also always try to be friendly to people on the street, but not too friendly. You have to strike a balance between wanting them to like you enough not to do anything bad to you, and not enough to want to follow you home and hang out. I know that might sound insane, but it’s important. When I go home to visit my friends always tell me how much I’ve changed and that I’m not friendly anymore. I think it’s just a side effect from living in New York City for so long. They’ll just have to live with it!

Road Trip! A survival guide

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 23:18:00 +0000

The words "Road Trip" either stir your wanderlust ... or strike fear into your heart. If you're a parent, the latter is more likely to be true, especially if you've driven endless miles with kiddos kicking the back of your seat and asking the infamous "Are we there yet?" question every 5 miles.

Not to worry ... a little preparation will go a long way toward making your family road trip much more tolerable, if not enjoyable.

Entertainment for the kids. This is a big one. Many parents choose in-car DVD players or even gaming consoles, handheld video games, or other gadgets. The available options are increasing every year, and the one thing to be said for these electronic toys is that they do a good job of distracting the kids. If you prefer, there are also the time-tested car games. There's always I-spy and license plate bingo, but you can also find books and blog posts with hundreds of ideas. Momsminivan has a good list here. You can also put together your own travel entertainment pack with a lap desk, some storage for craft supplies, coloring pages, quiet toys, activity books, etc.
Snacks. Having your own snacks and drinks along will save money and time, helping to curb all those frequent stops. It's a good idea to pack some simple snacks that will help with car sickness, if that's a factor with your kids. Good choices include ginger ale (especially the real thing), saltines, and ginger snap cookies. Bottled water is not only healthier for your kids, but will be less likely to promote nausea. Sugary snacks cause many kids to become very restless, as do foods with lots of food coloring, so your trip can be a lot more enjoyable with healthier snacks. Granola, nuts, trail mix, cheese, pretzels, raisins, and the like can make for a much better trip.
A change of clothes. Not only for little ones, but older ones as well. And it's much better if they are handy, rather than packed into a suitcase under 3 other suitcases in the trunk. If anyone slips in the mud, gets splashed, spills food, or has to deal with vomiting, you'll want fresh clothing on hand.
Clean-ups. A case of baby wipes is helpful, and it's a good idea to include paper towels, sponges, and cleaning supplies for the upholstery in case of spills or accidents. The sooner they are dealt with, the better. I always keep a container with these things in the trunk of my car. Don't forget to include plastic bags. They are handy for garbage, soiled paper towels, dirtied clothing, muddied shoes, and more.
Navigation tools. GPS or a cellphone equipped with navigation, or maps. It's a very good idea to check out the route along the way and plan for interesting stops along the way. Which brings us to ...
Side trips. It may make your travel time longer, but it can make the whole trip much more enjoyable. Stops along the way can be a lot of fun, let everyone stretch their legs, soothe frazzled nerves, and sometimes prove to be an unexpected highlight of your trip. It's a good idea to scope out the whole route in advance and plan for stops every two hours or so, and if it turns out everyone can wait, you can always skip some along the way.

Another alternative? Just get a lot of rest during the day before your trip and load the kiddos in their PJs into the car at night, and drive while they sleep. You'll have to make sure you stay alert (a talking buddy, spicy snacks, a wet cloth applied to your face, and frequent stops will all help) and be safe. But you can bypass all the drama and arrive a lot faster if you don't mind having to sleep the day before, and probably needing a nap the first day at your destination.

Romantic Honeymoons - Focus on Fiji

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:31:00 +0000

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway for your honeymoon, start by asking yourself what kind of atmosphere whispers “romance” in your ears. For many, it can be a postcard-idyllic island getaway with thoughts of quiet walks on moonlit beaches, staying in a secluded bungalow surrounded by lush jungle-like growth, or a enjoying a hidden waterfall lying among tropical flowers. If that sounds romantic to you, a Fiji honeymoon may be perfect.

And if you prefer a little more adventure, as a popular tourist destination, Fiji also boasts a wide variety of local activities including horseback riding, golf, hiking, and even sky diving. If pampering and luxury are more your style, many resorts offer spa treatments, massage, and private Jacuzzis.

As a further thought, many couples consider having their wedding in Fiji, allowing a quick start to the honeymoon. Fiji weddings offer spectacular photo opportunities, and because it is such a popular place for weddings, there are experienced professional planners available. All of the services you need are easily fulfilled locally. The anticipated expense is something that may seem prohibitive, but in fact a destination wedding can be much more casual as so easier on the budget than the typical formal wedding. Many couples don’t realize they could actually enjoy a cost savings by moving the wedding to the honeymoon destination. The main consideration is usually the size of the wedding party and guest list, but if you are opting for a more intimate gathering, you may be pleasantly surprised at how easy it is to enjoy both your wedding and your honeymoon in the islands.

So if an island paradise sounds like a wonderful romantic start of your new life together, consider Fiji. Your honeymoon will be a precious memory you carry for the rest of your life, so make it something to look back on and cherish forever.

Buying this place

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:48:00 +0000

Guest post from: Natalie Walter

Buying this place to turn it into a bed and breakfast was the biggest risk we’ve ever taken by far. My wife and I were so over living in the city and working those terrible hours so we decided to pick up everything and start all over in a quieter town and really do something with our lives we could be proud of. We found this amazing Victorian and that was that – we got to work looking into everything from building codes to Internet in Gearhart and here we are only about a month out from hosting our first guests at the bed and breakfast. I love saying I’m a innkeeper and I know my wife’s really excited about cooking for everyone every morning. I can’t believe we’ve carved out this insanely picturesque life for ourselves but we always did do anything we set our minds to so I can’t say I’m actually surprised. I hope business is good and that people respond well to what we’ve done with the place!

Chase Away Wintertime Blues - Indoor Water Parks!

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 02:56:00 +0000

“Niagara Falls” naturally brings to mind the majestic falls, some of the most powerful in the world, the site of many a honeymoon, and where you can be soaked from spray hundreds of feet from the falls themselves.

What Ontario in winter is NOT likely to inspire are thoughts of waterslides and swimming, or floating lazily along on your own innertube. But that’s just what you can find at Wolf Lodge, one of a chain of indoor water parks.

While skiing getaways and holiday shopping trips might be more usual wintertime trips, enjoying a water-tube rollercoaster can be just the ticket for chasing away winter blues. Families can share a raft and enjoy shooting down the Wooly Mammoth, the largest slide. The Canada Vortex is another thrill ride, with a 40 foot drop into splashdown. Little ones can enjoy calmer pools that slope from zero-depth to a foot and a half, and older kids will enjoy the indoor water-themed treehouse. And to wrap up an exhilarating day, visitors can relax in one of three hot whirlpools that look as if they welled up amid natural boulders. You have a choice of indoor or outdoor hot spas, family or adult-only.

So if you’re looking for something a little different this winter, check into Wolf Lodge. Other Wolf Lodge Resorts are located around the US. We give this resort a 4-paws up review!

You may be interested in other indoor waterparks as well:
Six Flags Great Escape
Fort Rapids Indoor Water Park
Splash Lagoon
Wilderness at the Smokies

Six reasons not to miss the Galapagos!

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 02:31:00 +0000

Long ago a young Charles Darwin boarded the HMS Beagle and visited the Galapagos Islands. The amazing diversity of animals he witnessed there inspired Darwin’s work on the Origin of Species. Travelers of today can recapture part of history on Galapagos Cruises, taking advantage of the opportunity to see fascinating wildlife.

A typical cruise itinerary will include the chance to see a number of species unique to the Galapagos Islands. Some of these include:

The Galapagos Land Iguana, described by Darwin as "ugly animals" having "a singularly stupid appearance" we prefer to think of them as reminiscent of dinosaurs. They are often seen in the company of birds they share a symbiotic relationship with. The birds remove ticks and other parasites from the iguanas, and get a free meal as payment for their services. The iguanas are about 3-5 feet long, and can live 50-60 years. They were so abundant in Darwin's time that he complained of not being able to find a place to pitch a tent among all the iguanas, but they later became almost extinct. Fortunately, there have been a number efforts to reintroduce them and rebuild their populations. Due to the success of these programs, visitors to the Galapagos Islands today can often see these creatures sunning themselves on the airstrips, crossing roads, or warming themselves on the rocks.

Visitors to the islands may see Galapagos Penguins, which are unique in several ways. They are the only wild penguins which ever cross the equator. At only 19 inches tall, they are among the smallest species of penguins. These two distinctions are in part responsible for another -- that they are also reported to be the rarest of penguins. The heat of the Islands does not make it the most hospitable home for penguins, and they struggle with keeping themselves cool and not letting eggs and chicks overheat. Their small size also makes them vulnerable to everything from native snakes and crabs to introduced cats on land, and seals, sea lions, and sharks in the water.

Galapagos sea lions are another favorite of travelers. They are very social and playful animals, and quite common on the islands. Visitors can often see them sun-bathing along the shoreline, frolicking in the surf, and barking amongst themselves. Their natural curiosity often draws them to be as interested in checking out the visitors as the visitors are in watching the sea lions. However, local laws protect wildlife from being disturbed, so they should not be interfered with. Still, it can be fun to have sea lions approach up close and personal, and they have earned their reputation as the official welcome wagon of the Galapagos Islands.
(Want to know how to tell the difference between a seal and a sea lion? Sea lions have ears, seals do not!)

The Marine Iguana of the Galapagos Islands has the special distinction of being the only reptile in the world that has taken to the sea. Darwin obviously had no greater love for these than he did for the land iguanas, calling them "imps of darkness" and wrote that the beaches were covered with "disgusting clumsy Lizards ... as black as the porous rocks over which they crawl." In fact, the huge iguanas (up to 5-1/2 feet long) are clumsy on land, although they are poetry in motion when swimming. However, they are not always black, but vary in color by location (red, blue, and green tones depending on which island), sex (males are more colorful). Sometimes their faces look white, due to their ability to excrete salt through nasal glands. In order to eat, they dive into the water and use their teeth to scrape algae from the submerged rocks. During their time in the water, their bodies become cold and they must climb onto the rocks in order to warm up again. While their bodies are warming, they are unable to run away from attackers, so they may become aggressive and bite anything they view as threatening while they are cold. Although they are threatened by dogs, cats, and other introduced species, their population numbers are relatively strong.

Just as the Galapagos sea lions may form the welcome committee on land, the Waved Albatross may provide one by sea. Fortunate travelers may see their Galapagos Cruise Ship receive an escort by the waved albatross. These amazing birds with their almost 7-1/2 foot wingspans can remain at sea for long periods of time, and have a gland that removes salt from their bodies because they take in a lot of seawater. They are magnificent flyers, using the varying wind speeds over the sea to their advantage in order to glide for hours. On land, their courtship rituals are among some of the most involved and interesting, and the partners remain mated for life.

Of course, no Galapagos Cruise would be complete without the Galapagos Tortoise. Synonymous with the Galapagos Islands in the minds of travelers from all over the world with good reason, Spanish explorers called the Islands Galápago, which translates "tortoise. This all-around record-breaking animal is the largest tortoise, sometimes reaching weights around 900 pounds and over 6 feet in length. It also has one of the the longest lifespan of any vertebrate; one captive tortoise was known to live at least 170 years. In some places these tortoises travel in herds (bringing to mind my grandmother's expression "We're off like a herd of turtles!" meaning moving slowly). Although they normally eat 70-80 pounds of forage per day, they can survive as long as a year and a half with no food or water.

Of special interest are the tortoises' mutualistic relationship with local birds. Finches gather and dance before the tortoise, making their offer. The tortoise responds in agreement by stretching limbs and neck far out of his shell, allowing the small birds to enter and pick parasites off the tortoise, giving food to the birds and relief to the tortoise. But sometimes an unlucky bird may find himself the victim of a not-so-honorable tortoise. Tortoises have been seen to wait until a bird is beneath them, then suddenly drop their shell onto the bird, squashing it. The tortoise then backs up and eats the bird, making a meal of its helper.

Without a doubt, the Galapagos Islands is home to some of the most unique and varied species of animals the planet has to offer. This is one destination anyone with an interest in wildlife or natural history will want to include on their life-list of places to visit!

Our 7 Wonders - Seven of the most amazing natural places on earth

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 04:37:00 +0000

To end the year, we wanted to share a photo post of some of the most amazing places on earth. Whether you ever travel to see all of them in person or not, it entices the imagination just knowing they are out there ...

The Great Blue Hole, in Belize

The Great Blue Hole is actually an underwater sinkhole, off the coast of Belize. The atoll is the Lighthouse Reef.

Mount Roraima

The surface of Mount Roraima when surrounded by clouds looks like it's the only place remaining on earth. It is a tabletop mountain on the border of Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana, only accessible from a steep slope from Venezuela, since the other sides are sheer cliffs. Spectacular waterfalls cascade from it's heights. Being isolated, there are some unique plant and animal species to be found on Mount Roraima.

Socotra

Socotra Island is another isolated location that boasts it's own collection of weird plant life and unique animals. It is one of a group of islands of the coast of Africa, but if you didn't know better, you might think you were on Mars instead from looking at the extremely weird landscape.

Giant's Causeway

Giant's Causeway in Ireland is a top destination for travelers to the Emerald Isle. The Causeway is made up of columns of basalt that interlock into an intricate pattern, and in some places rise high to form chimneys.

Lençóis Maranhenses

The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is an oasis of sand dunes in Brazil. In spite of regular rainfall (it is not a desert) there are no plants. Surprising small lagoons fill the spaces between the dunes during the rainy season, reaching their peak between July and September. The lagoons are filled with fish (whose eggs are presumably brought in by birds from nearby bodies of water) and the inhabitants of the park fish the lagoons. Truly a visual contradiction - lagoons in the desert.

Wave Rock

Wave Rock near Hyden in Western Australia is a natural rock formation that resembles a huge ocean wave just about to break. As you can tell from the pictures here, it is a good site for some fun photography tricks.

Spotted Lake

Spotted Lake is found near Osoyoos in British Columbia, Canada. Great concentrations of various minerals as well as lesser amounts of silver and titanium combine to give the pools their intense coloration. When the water evaporates during the summer, the minerals remain and form the spots. The area was purchased by the First Nations in 2001 and set aside as a sacred and therapeutic site.

Coming soon: amazing man-made features!

Please excuse our mess!

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 04:43:00 +0000

Just a little administrative notice ... we are taking advantage of the down-week between Christmas and New Year's to update all of our blogs and jazz them up a bit. In the meantime, please excuse the mess!

We are aware that many posts have gone missing :( and they should be replaced from our saved database soon.

The dust should settle within a few days, and we plan to roll out a whole new look for the New Year!

Peru - Adventure, Wilderness, History, Mystery!

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 06:22:00 +0000

Peru travel tours offer a wide range of vacation options unique to this destination alone. The cryptic Nazca Lines, the hidden peaks of Machu Picchu, the depths of the Amazon rainforest, all of these make Peru a land of mystery that beckons to the adventurous.

No Peru vacation package would be complete without a visit to Machu Picchu. Built by the Incas as an estate for the emperor, it was abandoned during the Spanish Conquest. Hidden away during the centuries since then, Machu Picchu remains nearly intact. Voted one of the new seven wonders of the world, it stands as an amazing example of Incan construction. Machu Picchu Peru tour guides lead tourists to the mysterious forgotten city in the clouds, introducing visitors to the rich culture and history of the city. Marvel at the amazing Incan building ingenuity which has allowed Machu Picchu to stand for centuries in spite of seismic activity, rivaling the best designs of modern architects in the attempt to deal with earthquakes.

Cruise the Amazon River on Delfin Luxury Cruises. Be amazed at the incredible diversity of plant life and the kaleidoscope of animal species. The Amazon is home to a staggering 1/3 of all species on earth, and more are being discovered every year.Experienced guides offer insights into the local wildlife. An ideal cruise for anyone who loves adventure and exploring a rich biodiversity.

The Nazca Lines were unknown until planes began flying over the area, and from the sky, passengers noticed the geometric patterns and likenesses of plants (tree and flower), likenesses of animals (including spider, dog, phoenix, hummingbird, monkey, and more), and in a few cases humans (one image is called the astronaut!). Much speculation has surrounded the Nazca Lines, but no one knows their exact meaning. They were created by removing the top layer of red stone, revealing lighter sand beneath.

Peru has a flavor and excitement all its own, from colorful local villages, exotic flora and fauna, and mist-topped mountains often reached by trekking with llamas. Rich in history and shrouded in mystery, Peru offers travelers a unique vacation adventure!

Hotels in Queenstown NZ - family fun and adventure

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:30:00 +0000

Looking for a holiday that is fun the entire family? A destination with adventure at every turn that will fill your days with excitement and provide memories for a lifetime? Queenstown, NZ will not disappoint!

Fly into Christchurch and stay in a Christchurch hotel, then get an early start to Queenstown. Here are some attractions you won’t want to miss!

Alipine Aqualand at $3-$8 per person is a great bargain, and fun for the entire family. Visitors from the Northern Hemisphere will especially appreciate the opportunity to splash down the hydroslide or relax on the lazy river
The Shotover Jet is an extreme jet boat ride that will thrill your entire family as you catapult through the awesome scenery of the Shotover River Canyons!
Relax on a steamship as you arrive at Walter Peak High Country Farm for a fun day filled with sheep shearing, horseback rides, strolling along lovely garden paths, and savoring delicious, traditional foods
Enjoy a visit to the Kiwi Birdlife Park where you can watch and even feed kiwis and take in a conservation show
Pick up the excitement again by taking a gondola to the top of the Skyline Luge, where a scenic path is available, along with a thrilling advanced track
Check out the Remarkables Market (near the Luge and open Saturdays October through April) where you can enjoy seasonal food, exclaim over the work of local artisans, and be entertained by performers -- all for free!
Relax in a private spa at the Onsen Hot Pools. Possibilities include a cozy candle-filled hot tub room or retractable windows that open to reveal a breathtaking cliffside view
Segway on Q lets everyone enjoy the unique experience of Segway, adding excitement to your local tour!
Summerdaze Festival will run from December 30 to January 31, and features fun for the little ones as well as live music, many sporting events, and arts and crafts. The cost is free, we recommend you don't miss this one!
This is the season for the Queenstown Farmer's Market as well. Visitors can enjoy fresh local produce as well as artisan breads, cheeses, chutneys, sausages, and many other farm delights
Ring in the New Year on the Steamboat Jazz Tour, and be in perfect position to view the fireworks over the water

These are just a few of the attractions and events you can enjoy on your Queenstown vacation -- there are far too many to be able to list here. So book your vacation in Queenstown hotels, plan your fun, and bring the whole family!

Tips for safe and healthy travel

noreply@blogger.com (GoldenBlogger) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:46:00 +0000

Everyone wants to focus on the fun of a vacation, but a little advance planning of practical aspects can save a lot of fear and frustration (and maybe a life!) later, in case something goes wrong.

Not long ago I was traveling across the country with Pepper, my beloved pet Labrador. Pepper has been my close friend and traveling buddy since I got her as a puppy 3 years ago.

We were on a stretch of road in west Texas when Pepper started wheezing. She had never done anything like that before, and I was concerned. My concern turned to near-panic when her breathing became even more labored, and I could see she was in serious trouble. I pulled over to check on her, but she wasn’t choking on anything and I didn’t know how to help her. I grabbed my cell phone … no reception.

I had no idea what to do, but I knew out in the middle of nowhere I wasn’t going to be able to help her, so I got back on the road and rushed to I-didn’t-know-where. There was an exit coming up, and a little gas station there, so I pulled in. Thankfully, the attendant didn’t think I was crazy, started making phone calls for me, and put me in touch with a vet clinic that was less than 10 miles away.

I rushed Pepper there, and two men in white medical lab coats picked her up and carried her into the back. The story had a happy ending – it turns out Pepper was having an acute asthma attack, and while it WAS an emergency, they were able to stabilize her. Now I have medications to (hopefully!) keep it under control. Her attack was most likely triggered by something in the air that she hadn’t been exposed to before.

Of course, I'm so glad what could have been a tragedy turned out alright.

So, what can you do to protect your pets, your children, and even yourself when traveling in case of an emergency?

image courtesy of
http://www.blueskyscrubs.com

The National Institute of Health recommends the following precautions –

Check with your insurance company before traveling to find out what coverages you have. Make sure to bring insurance information with you, and consider traveler's insurance if needed

Make sure you have any medications you will need for the duration of your trip, and keep it with you in a carry-on rather than checking it
Try to research health care in the country you are visiting if you travel abroad, and if possible, know where you will go if you need help. (Often your hotel can be very helpful with this information)
Bring immunization and health records, and contact information for your physician(s) and pharmacist
Find out if you will need to update any immunizations 4-6 weeks before you travel
Know what precautions to take for the area you are visiting, such as whether any foods or liquids may be unsafe, prevention of mosquito bites, whether traveler's diarrhea is common at that destination and how to prevent/treat it
When you arrive at your destination, find out how to contact emergency services if it should become necessary

A first aid kit and sunscreen are sensible items to pack as well.

And for traveling safely with pets:

Bring proof of the pet's vaccinations, and contact information for your veterinarian
Pack enough of the pet's regular food so that they don't have to change during the trip, if it is a food that might not be available locally. It can be a good idea to bring jugs of water from home as well
Have a carrier for the pet and get them used to being inside it before they leave, so they have a safe haven to retreat to and you have a way to restrain them
Harnesses and leashes are a good idea for cats who might otherwise easily escape and run away in panic. Of course leashes are essential for dogs as well.
Never leave pets in a car when the weather is warm, as the temperatures can quickly become too much for them (and it may be illegal in some places as well)
Make sure to bring any medications the pet may need
A veterinary visit before traveling can be a wise precaution, since pets often hide early signs of illness until it becomes more serious

We hope these precautions help our readers to have a healthy and safe trip!